In this clinical course, students focus on STEM content, effective practice, instructional strategies, materials and curriculum integration, based on standards, inquiry, and connections to the real world. STEM concepts of curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking are researched and explored. Students will learn about the Scientific Method, as well as the roles of observation, classification, description, experimentation, application, and imagination. Students will learn how to use technology and interactive media in the early childhood classroom to support learning. The role of engineering in the curriculum will be investigated, including design of methods and ideas for product development. Students will understand and apply math process standards of problem-solving, reasoning and proof, communication, connection, and representation. The course emphasizes application of principles in order to investigate and create experiences which employ STEM concepts and teaching strategies.

This course is designed to provide early childhood educators with the ability to use a variety of assessment methods to determine the developmental levels and needs of young children. Students are introduced to the meaning and uses of authentic assessment as well as various tools and assessment strategies. The course addresses the interpretation of observational and assessment data to monitor children's progress, guide instructional practice, and identify and refer at-risk children. Prior completion of EDC 602 Learning and Early Childhood Environments is recommended.

In this clinical course, students explore theory of social emotional development, preventative intervention strategies, and the characteristics of safe and supportive learning communities. Students examine specific strategies for motivating students and promoting positive relationships between colleagues, students, and parents in an effort to enhance learning. Students conduct a functional behavior assessment as they develop a comprehensive perspective on classroom culture through the development of proactive management skills and intervention strategies.

This clinical course focuses on learning theories and their application to science instruction. Students examine a variety of instructional strategies through readings, observation and participation in their clinical placements, and determine the appropriateness of each in the learning process. Topics include constructivist learning, differentiated learning, and an in-depth look at how the state and national standards guide science instruction. Additional topics include integrated STEM curricula, the appropriate use of technology, and effective formative, summative, and alternative assessment strategies. Students plan, teach and evaluate an integrated thematic unit with lessons that align with Next Generation Science Standards.